Karin Hedström appointed new Pro Vice-Chancellor at the University of Gävle

Professor Karin Hedström, currently Dean at Örebro University, has been appointed as the new Pro Vice-Chancellor (Prorektor) at the University of Gävle. The decision was made by the University Board at its meeting on April 16.

Karin Hedström is currently Dean of the Faculty of Business, Science and Engineering at Örebro University—a faculty with around 325 staff members and nearly 3,000 students. Hedström is a Professor of Informatics and her research focuses on applied and collaborative research on digitalisation, particularly its impact on society, organisations, and individuals. She has extensive experience in interdisciplinary research and externally funded projects.

Strong interest in the position

The Chair of the University Board, Stephen Hwang, noted in his account of the recruitment process that there had been an unusually high level of interest in the position, with a total of 17 applicants.

After a selection of candidates were invited for interviews, the recruitment group decided to present Karin Hedström as a main candidate to the hearing groups, who, according to established practice, were given the opportunity to interview the candidate. These groups consist of representatives from the academic staff, students, and the wider organization. Trade union representatives were also given the opportunity to interview the candidate.

All hearing groups and trade union representatives unanimously agreed that Karin Hedström was a highly qualified and suitable candidate.

“I am very pleased with the recruitment,” said Chair Stephen Hwang. “Karin Hedström has extensive and solid leadership experience with excellent references, both as a dean and as a member of the university leadership at Örebro. She has a strong commitment to society and has worked extensively with collaboration. She is also a highly skilled researcher and teacher.”

Karin Hedström relocating to Gävle

The role of Pro Vice-Chancellor involves working closely with the Vice-Chancellor (rector) and serving as his deputy in the leadership of the university. Karin Hedström will take up her position on July 1, when the current Pro Vice-Chancellor, Lars Bengtsson, steps down. Karin has a six-year appointment and has announced that she intends to relocate to Gävle.

TEXT: Tommy Löfgren